This notice is to inform you of an increase in the number of hazardous materials (HM) incidents involvingAnhydrous Ammonia (NH3) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
There have been several HM incidents resulting in the release of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Anhydrous Ammonia (NH3) most recently in Newport, Ohio where it was reported the hose and coupling malfunctioned when the driver was refilling the tanker. The release of these materials has resulted in serious injuries and deaths. A primary reason for the injuries and deaths are the improper use or maintenance of hoses and hose assemblies used in the loading and unloading of LPG and NH3. Please alert your hazmat employees of the dangers associated with loading and unloading these materials and ensure they have been properly trained in the handling of these materials.
The hose manufacturers provide explicit instructions on the proper uses of the hose for various chemicals. It is important that the hose is used only for the application it was designed and manufactured to handle. The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) requires prior to loading and unloading, a qualified person performs a visual inspection of the discharge system, including the delivery hose assembly and piping pursuant to 49 CFR 177.840. Additional hose maintenance requirements include regular tests, inspections, and maintaining documentation of such tests and inspections pursuant to 49 CFR 180.416. It is crucial that the regulations are followed in their entirety. You should refuse service to facilities where a driver discovers the facility is using hoses and systems that fail to comply with regulatory safety requirements. This will minimize the risk associated with the loading and unloading of LPG and NH3. This safety advisory should be included as part of the HM training as set forth in 49 CFR 172.700 of the HMR, and be provided to each hazmat employee responsible for the safe loading and unloading of LPG and NH3. If there are any questions regarding this safety advisory notice please contact the FMCSA Hazardous Materials Division at (202) 366-6121.